Christians do not believe Christ pretended to suffer or pretended to die. We believe that Christ suffered, died and was buried. That is, he went among the dead. Today is Holy Saturday. Read more from our own Melissa Musick after the jump:

Today is Good Friday, when we remember Christ’s passion at 3pm. It is a day of fasting and abstinence. In the photo above a woman kisses a crucifix. Pope Francis has encouraged all Catholics to kiss a crucifix this week and say the prayer, “Thank you Jesus. Thank you Lord.” Good Friday is also the only day of the year on which the Eucharist is not consecrated. Several chant versions of Crux Fidelis (Cross of Gladness) and photos of Good Friday around the world after the jump:

Today is Holy Thursday, when most Christian liturgies include a washing of the feet. When she was 16 years old, our own Anna Keating, wrote this essay for Commonwealabout having her feet washed. It’s reprinted with permission after the jump:

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Quotes

Go, and fear not. Be not bitter against anyone. Be not angry if you are wronged. Forgive. Be reconciled with everyone you know. If you are penitent, you love. And if you love, you are of God. All things are atoned for, all things are saved by love. Love is such a priceless treasure that you can redeem the whole world by it, and expiate not only your own sins but the sins of others.— Dostoevsky

Loving = Donating

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